In an attempt to reduce tree damage in harvesting oranges, the University of Florida has experimented with fruit loosening agents—abscission compounds. When applied, this chemical loosens the stems so the ripe oranges are more easily dislodged, which reduces damage from mechanical harvesting. However, mechanical harvesting of late-season Valencia oranges poses an additional problem in that the trees at that time contain mature fruit that is ready for harvest and the young crop of oranges that will mature in the next season.